Google acquires Redux, may eliminate speakers, button in next Pixel phone

The Alphabet Inc-led multi-million dollar company Google has reportedly acquired a startup called Redux. The UK-based company specializes in creating products and bespoke systems that deliver high-resolution haptic feedback without the requirement of a speaker. In other words, the search giant might be considering eliminating speakers and buttons from its next smartphone.

According to a report published by Mashable, the acquisition was being discussed between the two companies since August 2017. After mutually agreeing on terms and filling up the required regulatory documents, it appears that they have struck the deal.

To recall, Redux last year announced that they had developed something known as the “panel audio technology,” which would be used to replace smartphone speakers. The sound would instead be outputted from the device’s screen itself. Moreover, the system was designed in a certain way to release haptic effects that give users the feeling of buttons.

“The convergence of smartphone designs is largely down to a number of fundamental physical restrictions – from the size of the micro-speakers and other components to the need to cut the front glass for the earpiece speakers, and the practical limitations of where to put the buttons,” Redux said in a statement. “Our company overcomes such limitations and opens up new design possibilities – from the exterior design to the user interface,” the company adds.

The Arie Capital-led start-up managed to raise roughly $5 million in the year to bring its products to the market. Alphabet hasn’t commented on the acquisition as yet. If Google’s intentions to use Redux’s technology actually turns into a reality, then it could kickstart a whole new trend. Stereo sound emerging directly from the display of the smartphone would make the device significantly slicker. Additionally, it could also mean freeing up of space for a larger battery or a newer functionality.